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10 Magical Pennsylvania Places to Visit

By Anne Erickson
Allegheny National Forest.

No matter the season, Pennsylvania is a fantastic place for travel. There’s so much history in this great state. Of course, people come from all over the world to enjoy Pennsylvania’s historical sites and attractions. But, even those living in Pennsylvania should take the time to enjoy a vacation at home and venture to an area that they’ve never been before. This state truly has some magical Pennsylvania places to visit this season, or any season.

Before I get into the list of the 10 magical Pennsylvania places to visit, I want to highlight one favorite spot. As a chocolate lover, I have to say that Hershey is one of the best tourist spots in the area. Hersey is known for its family-friendly attractions, but adults can enjoy what the area has to offer, too. I mean, who doesn’t love chocolate?

If you’re heading to Hersey, one must-visit spot is Hersheypark. This is a massive amusement park. It offers 121 acres of outdoor attractions, including full-sized coasters, mellow family rides and an exciting waterpark. The park offers more than a dozen coasters, giving thrill-seekers plenty of options. Other attractions include the Lazy River or seeing a show at the Hersheypark Stadium, GIANT Center and Hershey Theatre. Some of the recent shows that have traveled through Hersheypark over the past few years include Lady Gaga, Five Finger Death Punch and “The Book of Mormon,” so a wide variety of entertainment options. Also, for adults vacationing in Hersheypark, beverage and beer carts are available in the park, as well as some restaurants to stop off and get a brew.

But, let’s get into the rest of Pennsylvania. Read on for 10 magical Pennsylvania places to visit this season, or any season. Whether you live in the Keystone State or far from it, this list will give you some good ideas of vacation spots, if you want to be in the state. Have more travel destinations for the list? Reach out to me, and find other great Pennsylvania vacation picks here.

10 Magical Pennsylvania Places to Visit

  • Hickory Run State Park

    Hickory Run State Park is about an hour and 40 minutes from Philadelphia and four and a half hours from Pittsburgh. It’s a beautiful spot with two lakes, a boulder field and more than 40 miles of hiking trails. That’s not to mention the gorgeous waterfalls.

    HICKORY RUN STATE PARK, PA

    The 15,990-acre Hickory Run State Park, Carbon County, lies in the western foothills of the Pocono Mountains. This large park has over 40 miles of hiking trails, three state park natural areas and miles of trout streams.

  • Gettysburg

    If you’re looking for a tourist haven in Pennsylvania, look no further than Gettysburg. There’s obviously so much history here. During the Halloween season, this is a great choice, because they offer a ghost tour. The tour is available year-round, but it’s extra perfect around Halloween. Of course, visitors can tour the roughly 6,000-acre Gettysburg National Military Park and more.

    Gettysburg National Military Park (U.S. National Park Service)

    The Battle of Gettysburg was a turning point in the Civil War, the Union victory that ended General Robert E. Lee's second and most ambitious invasion of the North. Often referred to as the "High Water Mark of the Rebellion", Gettysburg was the Civil War's bloodiest battle and was also the inspiration for President Abraham Lincoln's immortal "Gettysburg Address".

  • Hershey

    Hershey is often called “The Sweetest Place on Earth.” Of course, it’s the home of Hershey’s Chocolate. Here, you’ll find Hershey’s Chocolate World, tour of the facility to watch how Hershey’s chocolate and candy are made and more. I want some chocolate right now.

  • The Poconos

    The Poconos offer a great adventure for anyone in the area. This mountain range is located in northeastern Pennsylvania. It features several state parks packed with waterfalls, forests, lakes and streams, so it’s a truly magical place. It’s also great for hiking, swimming, camping and horse riding.

    Visit the Poconos

    Planning a vacation to the Pocono Mountains? Find information on resorts and hotels, family activities, events, restaurants, weddings and things to do.

  • Allegheny National Forest

    Allegheny National Forest is actually Pennsylvania’s only national forest. Anyone who loves the outdoors would likely take in this spot, with more than 500,000 acres of pure forest. The forest also has a reservoir for fishing, windsurfing and water skiing and more water fun. It’s really the perfect, remote getaway.

    Allegheny National Forest - Home

    Home Page

  • Hyner View State Park

    If you want social media-worthy images, then Hyner View State Park is for you. Stationed in north-central Pennsylvania, this quaint park overlooks the Susquehanna River and offers a gorgeous, complete view of the river and surrounding mountains. It’s a choice spot for hang gliding, too.

    Hyner View State Park

    This small park features one of the nicest overlooks in DCNR's Bureau of State Parks and is popular for hang gliding. Hyner Run State Park is nearby. Hyner View State Park features a scenic vista and is a favorite spot for hang gliding.

  • Lake Wallenpaupack

    If water is your thing, then try visiting Lake Wallenpaupack during the warm months. What’s crazy is that this is actually a man-made lake. It’s huge and one of the largest in the state, at about 5,700 acres. Some things to do there in the summer include water skiing, swimming, boating, kayaking and more. Oh, and don’t forget camping, which is big around these parts.

    Lake Wallenpaupack | Lodging, Camping, Activities & Dining

    Visit Lake Wallenpaupack, the third largest man-made lake in Pennsylvania. Find hiking, fishing, camping, kayaking, shopping, and more, all at your fingertips.

  • Philadelphia

    Be a tourist in your own town and visit Philadelphia this season. Philly is one of America’s favorite tourist destinations. It offers the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall and many other historical landmarks. Philadelphia also has an award-winning Zoo, the Philadelphia Zoo, and countless museums. There’s lots to do in Philly no matter the season.

  • Pittsburgh

    On the west side of the state, you’ll find Pittsburgh, which offers lots of travel fun. While it might not be considered quite as big a travel destination and Philly, it’s getting there. One big draw is the Andy Warhol Museum, which offers a huge collection of the late pop-art great’s work. Oh, and if you’re feeling daring, try the Duquesne Incline, which takes riders to the top of Mount Washington.

  • Leonard Harrison State Park

    The Leonard Harrison State Park offers an incredible view of the PA Grand Canyon, often called the Pine Creek Gorge. What’s extra special is that Leonard Harrison State Park offers a food truck concession during the summertime, so it’s easy and fun to get some local grub while you’re enjoying the nature.

    Leonard Harrison State Park

    On the east rim of the canyon, the 585-acre Leonard Harrison State Park has modern facilities, a visitor center, and the most famous scenic views of the canyon. On the other side of the canyon is Colton Point State Park. The park is open every day of the year, sunrise to sunset.

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